We all go through our own shit. Every day at least one of us is having some kind of issue with some thing or other. We complain to each other about stuff all the time. Some people do it more than others. Others don't do it at all - possibly because they don't want to be That Person who complains. I often don't want to be That Person. I want to be more of a shining light. I manage it quite often. Sometimes, like right now, I don't.
I'm going through my own shit. It's not that bad - in the grand scheme. It's not like I have to live with a significant disability, or like I am starving, or living under an incredibly oppressive regime. Just your usual job insecurity, self esteem issues, capitalism, and liveable illness. Most people can relate. Oh, and in Wellington right now we are having some earthquakes. They're not that bad, but they could be. A lot of things could be.
With this in mind, I pose an idea: Why don't we be like Bill and Ted and be excellent to each other more often? Why don't we hold the humorous sarcasm from time to time, drop the bloke act, and Just Be Nice? You never know when someone is having a shit day. Not everyone is going to tell you. Sometimes what is needed is a compliment, or a well-wish, or just to go easy on people. We are often strong, but we are not always bullet-proof.
I often find that the way to tell if someone needs some love of this kind - is if they themselves are being a bit of a dick. I know that when I most need encouragement, I'm probably being a bit snappy or rude, or just plain impatient. When I see others acting this way I try to remember that they're probably having a shit time and just need some compassion. Obviously not everybody is going to show their needs in this way though, and some people will be harder to read than others. So why should we not just be excellent to each other, all the time? I know it's fun to rib each other and make funny comments, but can we throw in some kind of compliment or something while we're doing it? I think we underestimate how much people need them. Even people who don't seem able to take them - but usually doing something for them in a more subtle way can work there.
So yeah - basically I'm suggesting we be nicer to each other. Even to those who seem undeserving of it. For they are usually the most in need. This world is hard for all of us - how about we make it easier? How about we put aside just a little bit of time to be a GC. It's so simple a task, and yet so easily forgotten. Be Excellent to Each Other.
and...
Party on Dudes!
